Planning & Environment

As we all start to get used to the summer weather that Scotland, and the rest of the UK is enjoying, leisure and hospitality operators want to move quickly to capitalise on the sunshine. Outside spaces can be utilised for eating and drinking, and cultural events. Children’s play areas can be installed to attract business… Read more »

The new EIA Regulations were introduced in May 2017. Scotland’s 2018 EIA Community Conference provided interesting insights into the state of EIA one year on. Proportionality A recurring theme was concern about disproportionate EIA. The example was given of a wind farm (not identified) where variations to the design resulted in an application to vary… Read more »

Previous editions of the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) Handbook issued by SNH (Scottish National Heritage) have become the “go to” reference for many professionals involved in environmental assessment. The 4th edition of the Handbook has proved its worth since 2014, recognised by professionals throughout the industry. The 5th edition has recently been published. Why now? European Union… Read more »

What do pandas and offshore wind farms have in common? Each have been involved in the exercise of call-in and notification powers by the Scottish Ministers. Call-in and notification powers Explanation of the Ministers’ powers are in my previous blog. Inch Cape offshore wind farm The Ministers have called in the application for planning permission in… Read more »